Welcome to a special episode of Talk of Thames with your host, Chloe Russell. This week, we're taking you on an exclusive boat trip along the iconic River Thames, recorded live during the Totally Thames Festival 2023. Join our expert guides—Amy Pryor, Technical Director of Thames Estuary Partnership, Fisheries Expert Steve Colclough, and Thames Archaeologist Fiona Haughey—as they delve into the rich biodiversity, fascinating history, and hidden heritage of London's great river.

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Talk of the Thames has been brought to you by the Thames Estuary Partnership https://www.thamesestuarypartnership.org/

Keep up to date with TEP on all platforms!
Twitter: @ThamesEstPart
Facebook: @thamesestuarypartnership
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Produced & Presented by Chloe Russell.

Welcome back to the second part of our captivating journey beneath the surface of the Thames Estuary. In this episode, we're joined by a true guardian of these waters, Steve Colclough, Fisheries Scientist and Chair of the Estuarine & Marine Specialist Section at the Institute of Fisheries Management (IFM). We've moved our discussion from the riverbank to the riverside at Battersea Reach, where Steve provides invaluable insights into the world of marine and freshwater fisheries, as well as his extensive experience in protecting this unique ecosystem.

We pose a series of thought-provoking questions to Steve, exploring his remarkable 40 year long career and his passion for preserving the biodiversity of the Thames Estuary. We uncover the challenges he's faced while conducting fish surveys, his innovative solutions and his ability to collaborate with a diverse array of stakeholders.

From memorable discoveries to the environmental threats that fish populations face, we dive deep into the intricacies of the estuarine ecosystem. Steve shares his wisdom on sustainable fisheries management practices and the ever-evolving trends he's observed over the years.

As the conversation unfolds, we also touch on the special concerns and conservation interests associated with particular fish species and habitats in the Thames Estuary.

For those who harbour dreams of a career in marine and freshwater fisheries or environmental consultancy, Steve imparts his seasoned advice. And, as always, we conclude with a profound take-home message from our esteemed guest.

So, join us at the tranquil Riverside at Battersea Reach as we learn from the river's guardian, Steve Colclough, and continue our exploration of the hidden world beneath the tides of the Thames Estuary.

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Talk of the Thames has been brought to you by the Thames Estuary Partnership https://www.thamesestuarypartnership.org/

Keep up to date with TEP on all platforms!
Twitter: @ThamesEstPart
Facebook: @thamesestuarypartnership
Instagram: @thamesestuarypartnership
YouTube: @thamesestuarypartnership

Produced & Presented by Chloe Russell.

Welcome to the first part of our exhilarating journey, as we delve into the thriving underwater world beneath the Thames Estuary. Our adventure begins at Battersea Reach, just east of the River Wandle's mouth, where TEP's Data and Training Manager Wanda Bodnar guides us through the essential work being carried out in this unique estuarine environment.

We start by uncovering the significance of Estuary Edges, an innovative approach to enhance biodiversity along the edges of the estuary. These man-made vegetated intertidal habitats act as crucial ecosystems for fish and other wildlife, rejuvenating the estuarine edges and promoting a healthier environment.

But why are these sites so important, you ask? Wanda delves into the historical transformations that the Thames Estuary has undergone over the past 2,000 years, leading to the loss of vital habitats. These habitats, like saltmarshes, seagrass areas and reedbeds, have a far-reaching impact, not just on the wildlife but also on our daily lives. They reduce flood risk, act as carbon sinks, and provide crucial nursery and spawning grounds for fish. In a world where the sea levels are rising, they play an indispensable role in safeguarding the environment.

The aquatic life in the Thames Estuary is as diverse as it is fascinating. From the freshwater zone upstream from Battersea to the brackish waters downstream to Greenwich and the predominantly salty waters beyond, the fish species are ever-changing, depending on weather, season and tidal cycles. In 2017, the last survey at this site revealed the presence of European seabass, common goby, and the critically endangered European eel. These species contribute to the intricate web of life within the estuary, and with our seine nets, the survey yielded a total of 54 fish comprising of eight different species, including zander, goby, seabass, dace and bream. Additionally, a single European eel was caught during the fyke net operation.

Steve Colclough, Fisheries expert, provides insights into the fish surveys and the equipment used. But it doesn't stop at just catching fish; Steve takes us through the identification process and explains the importance of the data collected. This valuable information is shared with partner organisations, including the Port of London Authority, Environment Agency and the Institute of Fisheries Management. The data helps demonstrate the ecological benefits of these habitats, underlining the significance of the Estuary Edges.

But the Thames Estuary is not just about fish; it's a bustling hub of wildlife. Over 300 species of invertebrates, 96 species of birds, three species of mammals and even sharks call this estuary home. It's a testament to the richness of this ecosystem, with species like the tope, starry smooth-hound and spurdog patrolling the outer estuary.

So, join us on this exploration of the hidden wonders of the Thames Estuary, where every dive into its waters reveals something extraordinary and where the ongoing efforts of dedicated individuals like Wanda and Steve are helping us better understand and protect this remarkable environment.

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Talk of the Thames has been brought to you by the Thames Estuary Partnership https://www.thamesestuarypartnership.org/

Socials:
Twitter: @ThamesEstPart Facebook: @thamesestuarypartnership Instagram: @thamesestuarypartnership
YouTube: @thamesestuarypartnership

Produced & Presented by Chloe Russell.